By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter
Marlborough – The Marlborough High School Class of 2013 said farewell to one another and thank you to parents, teachers and administrators before an enthusiastic and spirited audience Sunday afternoon during?commencement exercises in the John C. Colleary Field House.
“Set your goals high and accept all challenges before you,” said former U.S. Senator Scott Brown, who was asked to deliver the graduation address by students of the class, led by Alex Pelletier. Brown said he was honored and thanked Pelletier and all classmates who signed a petition asking him to attend their important event.
“Alex's letter came just as I was transitioning from
the public to private sector. It gave me the strength to move forward and move on,” said Brown, who lost his?seat to Elizabeth Warren.
“When you set a goal and everyone says it can’t be done?and your gut says it can – go with your gut,” he said.
Brown gave a special gift to all 314 graduates:?an autographed copy of his book, “Against All Odds – My Life of Hardship, Fast Breaks, and Second Chances.”
Mayor Arthur Vigeant, who is also chair of the School Committee, congratulated graduating students and welcomed parents, families and friends. He gave a special thank you to Dr. Stephen Dlott, interim
superintendent of schools.
“It's been a great year for Marlborough Public Schools due in no small part to Dr. Dlott. Our school system is in a much better place since he came and we are very grateful,” said Vigeant.
Addressing fellow classmates, Valedictorian Christopher Syers said:?”Many of us are excited for the next chapter of our lives as I’m sure you’ve heard many times, whether it be college, entering the workforce, or serving our country in the military.”
“Soon you will discover the experiences you have gained here at high school are invaluable. The most important are the life lessons one of your teachers or coaches bestowed upon you that will be helpful for as long as you live,” he continued.?”Just keep in mind the good times you’ve had so far and be excited for
the future.” He congratulated his classmates and wished them the “best of luck.”
In his speech, Salutatorian Joseph Babcock quoted his favorite TV hero — John Locke from the show “Lost” — saying, “Don’t tell me what I can’t do.”
He expressed gratitude to teachers and other school employees, especially those who extended duties by staying after school to help students excel such as custodians and coaches “for always keeping us on track.”
He gave a special thanks to parents who helped “immeasurably” throughout the years to keep them focused and he urged fellow classmates to stay in
contact with family and friends.
“No matter what you do in life remember these important people,” he said, urging a round of applause to all present “who helped facilitate our high school experience.”
Syers was the recipient of several awards and scholarships: the C.I.T.Y. Kids Scholarship Award, the Kane Elementary School PTO Scholarship, and the Marlborough Public Schools Music Association Cosmo A. Valente Scholarship.
Babcock received the Alice and Harry A. Barnard Scholarship and the MHS National Honor Society Scholarship. Both students received the Massachusetts Lodge of Elks Scholarship Award
and Charles R. Shipley Scholarship offered by Dow Chemical Company.
Graduates were?formally presented by Principal Craig Hardimon, who congratulated students and emphasized that they will be remembered by teachers, administrators, family and friends for their efforts and hard work. He assisted the mayor in presenting diplomas. Closing remarks were given by Selena Giroux, president of the Class of 2014.
Music for the graduation ceremony was provided by the MHS Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Band Director Gary Piazza, and the MHS A cappella Choir,?directed by Shannon Phypers. Members of the MHS Student Council served as ushers.
(Photos/Bridget Parmenter)